Aztec Dancing
Date: Thursday, March 09
Topic: Arts
An Aztec Dance is a ritual, is art, is exercise and is a show.
Aztec Dancing has been preserved through many years throughout the center of Mexico. It is a legacy that will never disappear as long as the Aztec race exists. The Spaniards destroyed their temples and deities, but they couldn't get rid of the dances and rituals.
During the last few years, more ruins and archaeological pieces have been discovered and the history of the Aztecs is still being rebuilt. Now the Aztec Dances have more interest and value as important part of the Mexican identity.
Aztec Dancing represent a gratitude to the nature that they used to worship - the rain, the fire, the wind, the sun and the moon.
The Dancers wear elegant headdresses or "Penachos" made of feathers from pheasant, pea*****, rooster, ostrich and turkey that represent greatness and pride. The costumes are made with different fabrics, in colorful designs, decorations and Aztec idols.
The Dancers use a rattler to sound when dancing. Many big seeds are fastened tightly around the feet in order to rattle like the feathered rattler serpent "Quetzalcoatl". The sound of the drum means the thunder. The shield was used for protection in war.
With the coming of the Spaniards and the imposition of Christianity, the Aztec Dances and rituals have become a mixture of cultures. It is a tradition to dance during the day on the celebrations of Saints or Virgins for devotion outside the churches.
Usually 30 or more dancers make a circle and take turns to dance in the center. Before starting and when finishing everyone dances making a cross with their feet. Most of the dancers do it to show their faith and gratitude to God.
The Aztec Dancing give joy on the celebrations in Mexico and represent union, conformity and conquest.
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